Former electrician finds auto sales electrifying

On a busy afternoon, Planet Hyundai West Sahara sales manager Ernie Leon is working car deals, while having the time of his life.

Leon, 45, is a former electrician whose 19 years in the electrical business included work at Mandalay Bay. He left the trade to enter the car business 15 years ago and hasn't looked back since.

"This is a very rewarding business because we make good money here, too, but the key is that we're able to help people at the same time ..."

An example of keeping customers happy is when the dealership works with people whether they purchase at Planet Hyundai or elsewhere.

"For instance, if a customer comes through the door looking for a trade appraisal or numbers on a car, we offer that service to everyone whether they buy or not," explained Leon. "Most dealerships want you to get your numbers from somewhere else and then come back, but we're happy to get the bidding process under way right off the bat. This is a no-hassle buying experience with us and our success is proof of that."

The car business is addictive and Leon loves the atmosphere and the challenges involved.

"I could work anywhere, and I wouldn't work anywhere else," said Leon, adding that he was the top-selling Toyota sales consultant with 512 transactions in 1999. "I look forward to going to work every day and can't wait to get back when I get up in the morning.

"I'm not surprised," said Leon of Hyundai's success. "When you combine the pricing, styling, performance, fuel economy and 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty, there is no other vehicle to purchase.

"We sold 50 cars just on the Memorial Day weekend, so that shows how popular both the dealership and the Hyundai are."

For more information, Visit Planet Hyundai at www PlanetLV.com or call 938-1400. The dealership is located at 7150 W. Sahara Ave. with another dealership, Planet Hyundai Centennial, at 6200 Centennial Center Blvd. in the northwest valley.